Imaging Apparatus Pupil Correction via Variable Via Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Imaging elements with stacked photoelectric conversion films face sensitivity issues due to differences in height within the silicon substrate, leading to reduced performance with oblique light incidence, and existing pupil correction methods restrict the amount of correction possible, limiting image quality.
Innovation Solution
An imaging apparatus with a photoelectric conversion film, first and second lower electrodes, and a via connecting them, where the distance between the photodiode and via centers varies between the center and edge of the angle of view, allowing for appropriate pupil correction and improved signal charge generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lower electrodes are shifted from the light reception section to correct for oblique light incidence, then sensitivity for oblique light is improved, but the electrodes may protrude from the unit pixels and prevent potential conveyance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the contradiction by transitioning from a two-dimensional planar electrode arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. The first lower electrode is positioned in the first depth direction beneath the photoelectric conversion film, while the second lower electrode is positioned in the second depth direction beneath the first lower electrode. This vertical stacking enables pupil correction for oblique light without requiring lateral protrusion that would exceed unit pixel boundaries, thus maintaining both sensitivity and structural constraints.
2Reliability
If the distance between photodiode and via centers is varied for pupil correction, then image quality is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the via position variable according to the incident light angle. The distance between the photodiode center and via center is set to differ between the center of the angle of view and the edge of the angle of view. This dynamic positioning allows the imaging apparatus to perform pupil correction that adapts to different viewing angles, improving image quality across the entire field of view while the systematic variation pattern facilitates manufacturability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enables suitable pupil correction, enhancing image quality by maintaining sensitivity and reducing false colors, especially under oblique light conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion film configured to absorb light of a predetermined color component to generate signal charges
Implementation Method 2
a photodiode configured to be formed under the second lower electrode and to generate signal charges reflecting the amount of incident light
Data Source
AI summary
This technology relates to an imaging apparatus and an electronic device structured to perform pupil correction appropriately. There are provided a photoelectric conversion film configured to absorb light of a predetermined color component to generate signal charges, a first lower electrode configured to be formed under the photoelectric conversion film, a second lower electrode configured to be connected with the first lower electrode, a via configured to connect the first lower electrode with the second lower electrode, and a photodiode configured to be formed under the second lower electrode and to generate signal charges reflecting the amount of incident light. A first distance between the center of the photodiode and the center of the via at the center of the angle of view is different from a second distance therebetween at an edge of the angle of view. The present technology can be applied to imaging apparatuses.